ADVERTISEMENT
You Can Grow 8 Types of Snake-Repelling Plants – Naturally Keep Them Away!
If the thought of snakes slithering around your yard or garden makes your skin crawl, you’re not alone. While snakes play an important role in the ecosystem, most of us would rather keep our distance—especially around our homes. The good news? Nature has its own defense system. Certain plants are known to naturally repel snakes thanks to their strong scent, texture, or chemical makeup.
Whether you live in a snake-prone area or simply want to add a layer of natural protection to your garden, here are 8 snake-repelling plants you can grow to help keep unwanted serpents at bay—no harsh chemicals required.
🌿 1. Marigolds
Why it works:
Marigolds are known for their bright flowers and their strong, musky scent. While we may find the smell pleasant, many pests—including snakes—do not. Additionally, marigolds release a substance from their roots that can repel nematodes and other underground pests, potentially reducing the food source for snakes.
Bonus: They attract beneficial insects and pollinators, making them great for your garden ecosystem.
🌱 2. Lemongrass (Cymbopogon)
Why it works:
Lemongrass is often used to repel mosquitoes, but it can also help deter snakes thanks to its citrusy, sharp scent. It contains citronella, a natural oil that snakes avoid. Plus, it grows tall and bushy, which creates a natural barrier.
Plant tip: Lemongrass thrives in warm, sunny spots and needs regular watering.
🧄 3. Garlic
Why it works:
Garlic produces a pungent odor that snakes find overwhelming. When planted around the perimeter of your home or garden, it acts as a strong natural deterrent. Some even say snakes will avoid areas where garlic has been crushed into the soil.
DIY trick: You can also make a garlic spray by mixing crushed garlic with water and spraying it around high-risk snake areas.
🌸 4. Wormwood (Artemisia)
Why it works:
Wormwood is a silvery-green plant with a very bitter taste and a strong scent that deters many types of animals—including snakes. The oils and compounds in the plant are believed to disrupt a snake’s scent receptors, making your garden less appealing.
Note: Wormwood is mildly toxic, so plant it away from pets and kids.
🌿 5. Mother-in-Law’s Tongue (Snake Plant / Sansevieria)
Why it works:
